Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan, especially given its BSk climate, which offers hot summers and sunny days throughout the year. With UV levels soaring to 11 during midday hours, it's vital to be aware of potential sunburn risks and skin health impacts. By keeping track of the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to protect your skin when outdoor activities are appealing. Whether you're out for a stroll or working in the sun, knowing the UV levels can help you enjoy the beautiful Afghan sun safely.
The UV Index data for the day reveals a dynamic solar intensity, peaking in the mid-morning to early afternoon. At 07:00, the index starts at a manageable 3, but by 10:00, it surges to a significant 10, hitting its maximum of 11 between 11:00 and 12:00. Caution is advised during these hours, as the sun's rays become particularly strong. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, dropping to 7 by 14:00 and further down to 5 by 15:00. By 16:00, the UV Index returns to a safer level of 3, and by evening, it dwindles to a negligible 1 at 17:00 and 18:00, finally settling at 0 by 19:00. Overall, it's crucial to stay protected during the peak hours to enjoy the sun responsibly!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 08:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, reflecting seasonal changes in sun exposure. January and December both see a UV Index of 3, categorized as moderate, with a burn time of 30 minutes. As spring approaches, February reaches a UV Index of 5 (moderate), while March escalates to 8 (very high), indicating a sharp increase in potential sunburn risk. The peak months for UV exposure occur from April to July, with July remaining constant at a critical UV Index of 11, categorized as extreme; during this period, only 10 minutes of unprotected sun exposure can lead to burns. As summer transitions to fall, the UV Index gradually declines, with September at 9 (very high) and heading into October at 7 (high), where the burn time increases to 25 minutes. With these fluctuations in mind, it is essential for visitors and residents to take precautionary measures, especially from March through August, when UV levels are particularly high; wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours can greatly reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mazar-e Sharif | 3 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Jalalabad UVI | 4 | 5 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Herat UVI | 5 | 6 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Kandahar UVI | 5 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 5 |
| Kabul UVI | 6 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 |